News

Changes to Bear Down Friday Events at Main Gate Square

The Bear Down Fridays pep rally stage from a past event.

Tucson, AZ – Marshall Foundation, a cornerstone of support for education and community events in Tucson, announces a revised schedule for the beloved Bear Down Friday events at Main Gate Square. As the sole sponsor of these spirited rallies held in support of the University of Arizona (U of A) football team, the Foundation has traditionally hosted up to six events each fall season. This year, however, a total of three Bear Down Fridays will be held.

The decision to reduce the number of events was made with careful consideration of community engagement and the seasonal climate. Marshall Foundation is committed to ensuring maximum participation and enjoyment, which can be challenging during the hotter months early in the football season. By concentrating the rallies in October, the Foundation aims to create a more comfortable and festive environment for all attendees.

Revised Bear Down Friday Schedule:

  1. October 4: Rally for the Wildcats’ first home game against Big 12 rival, Texas Tech Red Raiders.
  2. October 18: The traditional Homecoming rally followed by the traditional bonfire in front of Old Main as part of U of A’s Homecoming celebrations.
  3. October 25: As part of the Celebration of U of A Family Weekend.

About the Marshall Foundation:

Established in 1930, the Marshall Foundation is an Arizona nonprofit dedicated to supporting education. Headquartered near the U of A main campus, the Foundation funds its philanthropy through retail leases on commercial properties within Main Gate Square. The Square, a vibrant hub of over 60 shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and two full-service hotels, has long been the venue for Bear Down Fridays, which energize the community in anticipation of U of A football games.

The Foundation, as the landlord for more than 20 retailers and 30 restaurants within Main Gate Square, remains committed to fostering a lively and engaging atmosphere for the Tucson community and U of A supporters. While the number of rallies has been reduced this season, the quality and spirit of the events will remain as strong as ever.